Appeal in 2007 Pinole Halloween party killing denied

SAN FRANCISCO -- The First District Court of Appeals on Friday upheld the conviction of a West Contra Costa gang member who shot and killed a Halloween party-goer in Pinole in 2007.

Charles R. Miles was convicted in 2011 of first-degree murder in the death of Jason Coca outside a party on Michael Drive and sentenced to 58 years to life in prison. Miles testified that he fired in self-defense. An unloaded gun was found on the body of Coca, who was shot six times.

Miles appealed, contending that he was prejudiced at his trial by four errors committed by the court and the prosecution. The court found no merit in Miles' claims.